The European Commission has proposed that Google share search data with third parties, including alternative search engines and AI chatbots. This is intended to stimulate competition in the search market and follows new obligations under the Digital Markets Act.
The Commission explains that the proposal requires Google to make search data such as ranking, queries, click, and view data available to other online search services. The measure is designed to help alternative search engines and AI chatbots with search functionality optimize their services and challenge Google’s dominant position.
Google tried to avoid this obligation to share search data with competitors by filing an appeal. However, the Commission wants to ensure that digital markets become fairer and more accessible, one of the central objectives of the Digital Markets Act (DMA).
“Search engines must be able to innovate and keep pace with the changing needs of users. We remain committed to creating opportunities in this sector, and at a crucial moment when the integration with AI services is becoming increasingly significant,” said Henna Virkkunen, Executive Vice-President for Tech Sovereignty, Security and Democracy.
Data sharing conditions
The proposed measures regulate which parties are eligible for access to the search data. Both traditional search engines and AI chatbots offering search services can be recognized as ‘data beneficiaries.’ The Commission also determines which types of data Google must share and how frequently they are made available.
In addition, strict requirements are set for the anonymization of personal data when sharing information. This is intended to protect user privacy. Parameters are also established for the pricing of search data to ensure it is market-compliant and non-discriminatory. Finally, the proposal describes how the access process for involved parties will be organized.
Pressure on Google
The Commission is calling on stakeholders to provide their feedback via a public consultation until May. Both third parties and Google itself can submit their comments. Based on this input, the Commission can further refine the proposal before it becomes final.
The final decision-making must take place by July 27, 2026, at the latest. After that date, the decision will become binding for Google.